Magda is a Soviet gymnast who wants to defect. After nearly being kidnapped by a serial killer, she finds sanctuary in a synagogue where Rabbi Shotness promises to help. Magda explains that her parents, who are in the Soviet Union, will be in Vienna in two days where they will seek political asylum; Magda doesn't want news of her defection made public until her parents are safe. However, Serpico desperately wants Magda because she can identify the serial killer who kidnaps women, rapes them, then kills them with an ice pick to the heart. Meanwhile, the Soviet secret police are also looking for Magda.

Marcus, a young adult, watches a gang throw a woman off a roof. Serpico and other officers search for Marcus in order to protect him from the gang. Marcus's school teacher, Michelle, knows where he is, and Serpico tries to convince her to tell him.